JEFFERSON CITY, MO -The Thanksgiving holiday is usually one of travel and cheer. Unfortunately, it can also be a very dangerous time on Missouri roads. During the 2011 Thanksgiving holiday there were 1372 traffic crashes, and four fatalities on Missouri's roadways.

"The sheer number of crashes, injuries and deaths during this holiday are startling enough, but worse yet, most of those deaths and injuries could have been prevented," said Leanna Depue, executive chair of the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety. "With more people traveling, the possibility for traffic incidents increases, but there are many things motorists can do to keep themselves safer on the roads."

Before you head to Thanksgiving dinner, the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety urges you to plan your safe travel ahead of time. With increased traffic and hurried travelers, safety needs to your top priority. You can make your holiday travel safer by following these tips: